One of the top historical cities in the nation, Montgomery, Alabama, spans from the Civil War to Civil Rights to civil aviation.

Atlanta, Georgia

Take some time for fun attractions while pampering yourself with luxury when you visit the elegant Buckhead neighborhood in Atlanta.

Award-Winning Journalist

The Deep South region of the United States beckons travelers with its rich history, opulent grandeur, down-home cooking, and warm hospitality. Embarking on a radical 3,000-mile drive through 10 major cities in 6 charming southern states, we set out in the Toyota Avalon Hybrid Limited in search of scenic vistas, glistening cityscapes, exciting adventures ... and, of course, a big ol' shade tree under which we might enjoy a cool breeze and a tall glass of ice-cold sweet tea.

For each of our ten stops, we'll give you interesting insights about a culturally significant woman related to the location along with a poignant lesson to ponder; and we'll also let you know what we did, where we ate, how to relax, when to go, and why you should definitely visit.

Rainbow Row | Charleston, South Carolina

And while it's true that the Deep South is frequently considered to be solely comprised of Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, South Carolina, and Louisiana; if you think we're going to embark on a tour of the Deep South without including Florida and our own great Lone Star State of Texas, well bless your heart, I reckon you're out of your cotton-pickin' mind.

Bienville Square | Mobile, Alabama

Where We Ate

Much of Southern life revolves around its particular love of homestyle comfort foods, so this trip itinerary will, without a doubt, take you to some of the Deep South's most beloved restaurants. You'll have the opportunity to taste dishes like Tex-Mex food from the oldest Mexican restaurant chain in the United States, fried chicken and collard greens from a nationally-recognized Southern soul food eatery, slow-cooked BBQ and banana pudding as well as contemporary soul food and fried green tomatoes, James Beard award-winning lowcountry cuisine like boiled peanuts and deep-fried cheese grits, locally-famous pecan waffles from a down-home southern diner just off the beach, casual fare like a Crap Trap sandwich served from a pontoon boat, Gulf Coast seafood with panoramic views of the bay, Cajun food along with pralines and beignets, an upscale American steak and souffle, and much more including a bonus chocolate shop and wine tasting tour in north Texas.

Red Dress Run | New Orleans

Why to Visit

Genuine Southern hospitality and the accompanying verbal accents are, for the most part, not in the least bit fabricated. Aside from the occasional mean ol' codger that you might run across every now and again, most authentic Southerners are generally kind-hearted, exceptionally welcoming to strangers, and well-verse in the art of valuing others. In addition to this innately friendly nature, there is also a host of other enticing reasons to consider traveling to the Deep South including the glamour, culture, history, luxury, architecture, squares, atmosphere, traditions, music, and all-encompassing forward-thinking vision.

Alabama State Capitol | Montgomery, Alabama

Toyota Avalon

We chose to drive the Toyota Avalon on this trip in large part due to its nimble drivability, exceptional fuel economy, and upscale luxury features. Our full review of the Toyota Avalon Hybrid Limited, which was used for this 3,000-mile trip through six southern states, examines ten unique aspects of the practical yet elegant upscale sedan.